"Miss Hayes said that this violin belongs to me, so naturally, I can handle it however I want."
Gavin feigned confusion. "But now that I want to give it to Selina, the Hayes Family suddenly disagrees? If that’s the case, then Selina, let’s just pay for it ourselves. Two hundred and ten million, right? Transfer it to the Hayes Family."
Selina shrugged helplessly. "Alright, alright, I knew the Hayes Family wouldn’t keep their word. It doesn’t matter. I was planning to buy this violin today anyway, spending a little extra isn’t a problem."
Gavin’s assistant stepped forward. "Young Master, don’t worry. I’ll contact the bank now. The transfer will be completed within half an hour. Miss Hayes, please wait a moment."
The expressions in the room subtly shifted as people started exchanging glances.
Luke scratched his head and muttered, "So... a gift can be taken back? Who’s the real donor here—Gavin or Bella?"
The auction organizer looked anxious. This was a problem. Bella’s name was already listed as the event’s top donor. But now that Gavin was paying the full amount... Who was the actual buyer?
The murmurs in the crowd grew louder:
"This seems wrong. Gavin is paying, but Bella’s getting the credit? So she’s taking someone else’s money just to boost her reputation?"
"The Hayes Family has no shame. Bella insisted on giving the violin to Mr. Hill, and when he accepted, they suddenly demanded payment. Isn’t that extortion?"
"Good thing Mr. Hill has money, or the Hayes Family would’ve completely scammed him!"
Gavin’s voice was calm but cutting. "Before coming to the auction, Miss Hayes promised to donate at least two hundred million. Thanks to her so-called ’kindness,’ the Hayes Family has reaped at least five times that in benefits."
"Yet now, they can’t bear to part with the money?"
Bella staggered, her expression stiff. "No, no, that’s not what I meant..."
She couldn’t accept this money. If she did, the Hayes Family’s reputation would be ruined.
But she also couldn’t swallow this humiliation!
"That’s not it!" Rose cried, her voice trembling. "Mr. Hill, Bella would never lie to you! She’s just trying to protect you from being deceived by Selina! She... she’s already married! She’s not worth you spending so much money on her!"
Hayes Madam’s eyes darted around as she quickly added, "Yes, Mr. Hill! Selina has more than one man around her. Who knows how many people she’s fooled with this same trick? You must not let yourself be deceived!"
The room fell into silence. People exchanged uncertain glances.
It was true—why was Gavin giving Selina such an expensive violin?
Logan’s gaze darkened.
Gavin paused, then suddenly let out a cold laugh. His tone was mocking as he asked, "Are you suggesting that Selina and I have an improper relationship? What is it—do you think I’m keeping her as my mistress? Or do you assume she’s shameless enough to be my kept woman?"
Hayes Madam hadn’t expected Gavin to lay it out so bluntly. Her face flushed deep red. "I-I..."
The auction hall was completely silent.
Gavin let out another scornful laugh.
"The Hayes Family really doesn’t know when to quit! Miss Hayes, do I need to remind you—Selina is my sister!"
A stunned silence swept through the room.
Everyone’s eyes widened in shock. Gavin said what? Selina is his sister?!
Hayes Madam turned to Bella in horror. Bella’s face was deathly pale, and she looked like she might faint.
Selina blinked innocently. "Why does Miss Hayes look so surprised? Didn’t you already know about my relationship with Gavin? Or... did you forget?"
Gavin smirked. "I made it crystal clear last time—Selina is the beloved daughter of the Hill Family. Miss Hayes, did you really forget so soon?"
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Married First, Loved Later : A Flash Marriage with My Ex's 'Uncle'